Cultural Clash: BJP's Missteps in Tamil Nadu

Congress MP Karti Chidambaram criticized the BJP and allied groups for misunderstanding Tamil Nadu's cultural fabric. This follows RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's remarks suggesting that Hindu awakening suffices for issues like Thiruparankundram. Chidambaram emphasized Tamil Nadu's commitment to maintaining its unique cultural and religious identity without external influence.

Congress MP Karti Chidambaram has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its affiliate organizations of fundamentally misunderstanding Tamil Nadu's cultural and religious landscape. His comments were a response to recent statements by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, who addressed the Thiruparankundram issue. Bhagwat suggested that the 'awakening of Hindus' in Tamil Nadu was sufficient to achieve a desired outcome, as escalation might not be necessary due to legal considerations.

Speaking to reporters in Delhi, Chidambaram asserted that the BJP's efforts to interlink faith with politics fail to resonate with Tamil Nadu's residents. He highlighted the state's deeply rooted religious practices and emphasized that the BJP's affiliated groups often stir controversies in a region known for its communal harmony. He stated that Tamil Nadu would resist external attempts to impose a version of Hindutva and would continue to uphold its religious practices alongside societal coexistence.

Meanwhile, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, during his speech, insisted that the Hindu revival in the state was adequate to resolve current disputes, particularly in Thiruparankundram where recent clashes during a religious festival drew attention. Bhagwat stressed that escalation could be reconsidered if needed, pointing out that Tamil Nadu's Hindu organizations would determine if further actions are required. This comes amid legal directives concerning religious practices at the Subramaniya Swamy temple site, where a contested order by Justice GR Swaminathan has sparked political controversy.

(With inputs from agencies.)